Ancillary Property Recovery Order
Information for defendants and protected persons
What is an Ancillary Property Recovery Order?
An Ancillary Property Recovery Order (APRO) is an order directing the occupier of premises to allow a person to access the premises to remove personal property. The order may be made to assist a protected person or a defendant who has left personal belongings at an address after a domestic violence incident. The order does not create legal rights of ownership over property.
When can an APRO be made?
An Ancillary Property Recovery Order can only be made at the time that a Court or an authorised officer makes an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order.
What type of property can an APRO be made for?
An Ancilliary Property Recovery Order may be made where a person leaves personal effects such as clothing, toiletries and other essential personal or work items at the premises they have left.
What other conditions can be made with an APRO?
The Court, or authorised officer, may include additional conditions on an Ancillary Property Recovery Order including a requirement that the person enter the premises while accompanied by a police officer or another person and that entry into the premises take place at specified times. The order may specify the property that may be recovered.
What if a person does not comply with an APRO?
An Ancillary Property Recovery Order does not authorise anybody to forcibly enter premises and recover property. It is an offence if a person does not comply with the order or obstructs a person who is attempting to comply with an order. The maximum penalty is $5,500.
Where do I get more information?
- The Chamber Registrar at your local court;
- LawAccess NSW on 1300 888 529 (a local call from anywhere in NSW). LawAccess NSW is a free government telephone legal assistance service. It can also refer you to a lawyer.
- NSW Police Customer Assistance Unit on 1800 622 571;
- Police Domestic Violence Liaison Officer at your local police station;
Updated May 2007
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